HUNDREDS of runners have started the new year by getting fit and active at Colchester’s Parkrun.

Taking place on Saturday mornings across Britain, the Parkrun is a 5k running event for anyone and everyone and is free of charge.

Colchester’s version of the Parkrun takes place at Castle Park starting at 9am and is one of more than 700 locations which host a Parkrun each week.

Parkruns are made possible thanks to the generosity of organisers and volunteers.

A total of 313 runners took on the 5k course on New Year’s Day with 32 people volunteering at the event to ensure it ran smoothly.

First back in the men’s category was Colchester and Tendring runner Gerald Buck, who finished in a time of 17minutes and 52 seconds, three seconds ahead of his nearest challenger, Jonathan Nears of Colchester Harriers.

One of the highest placed youngsters in the field was under-20 athlete Josh Collenette, who came fifth overall in a time of 18 minutes 50 seconds.

In the women’s category, Colchester Harriers’ Lizzie Wellsted – also an under 20 – took the win in a time of 20 minutes 09 seconds.

Her victory ended the winning streak of Lily Gilby, who had won three races consecutively throughout December – including a victory on Christmas morning.

Colchester Harriers’ Arthur Wiston, now in his 70s, ran a highly-impressive 23 minutes 40 seconds, while Peter Swanston, now in his 80s, was the oldest competitor in the field.